Photo credit: Maldon Bakery
After six years working as a medical secretary, Bendigo local Sammi Lister decided it was time for a career change. With a lifelong love of cooking and baking, she took the leap and enrolled in the Certificate III in Baking at Bendigo TAFE.
Today, Sammi is putting her skills into practice as a pastry chef at Maldon Bakery, doing something she had wanted to pursue for years.
Born and raised in Bendigo, Sammi had worked in several different roles before deciding to follow her passion for baking.
"Food Technology and Hospitality were my favourite subjects at school. It's something I have wanted to turn into a career in the past 20 years," she said.
After six years working for a cardiologist, Sammi was ready for a change. She chose Bendigo TAFE because of the course's practical focus and the opportunity to develop skills she could apply directly in the workplace.
For Sammi, returning to study was an opportunity to turn something she loved doing at home into a professional career.
One of the highlights of Sammi's experience at Bendigo TAFE was learning from teachers who brought their industry knowledge and experience into the classroom.
"The teachers were so inspiring and I learnt so much from them. Their teaching has really helped me in my current workplace," she said.
Sammi particularly enjoyed the variety of practical classes, where each session offered something different.
"Every class was different and brought surprises – no two classes were the same."
While Sammi already enjoyed baking at home, her training helped her understand the demands of working in a commercial bakery.
"The training really helped me, as it is not like cooking at home. You need to be quick on your feet, organised and have really good time management."
From managing multiple products at once to staying organised and thinking ahead, these were skills she would soon put to use in the workplace.
After completing her Certificate III in Baking in June 2026, Sammi came across an Instagram post from Maldon Bakery featuring a former Bendigo TAFE classmate.
She left a comment mentioning her baking studies, which caught the attention of the bakery owner. An invitation to visit the bakery led to an interview, a job trial and ultimately a job offer.
Now working at Maldon Bakery, Sammi enjoys the fast-paced environment, creating baked goods and seeing customers enjoy the products she helps prepare.
"I love the fast-paced environment of the bakery, creating beautiful products, seeing the bakery full of customers is so rewarding, and I work with an incredible team!"
For Sammi, completing her qualification and securing employment in the baking industry have been rewarding achievements.
Her advice to anyone considering studying baking at Bendigo TAFE?
"Absolutely go for it! You have nothing to lose – only gains!"
She also has no hesitation recommending the course.
"You will be surrounded with workplace industry knowledge from amazing teachers which prepares you for the real world of baking."
Reflecting on her experience, Sammi sums up her time at Bendigo TAFE as "absolutely rewarding and worth it!"
Inspired by Sammi's story?
Explore the Certificate III in Baking at Bendigo TAFE and discover how practical, industry-focused training could help you take the next step in your career.
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